QLD hostel stabbing: Police investigate if linked to extremism

Federal police are investigating whether the fatal stabbing of a 21-year-old British backpacker in Queensland's north is linked to religious extremism after the alleged attacker reportedly yelled 'Allahu akbar'.

Queensland Police Service Deputy Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said he isn’t ruling out any motivations, reports News.com.au.

The attacked occurred at Shelley’s Backpackers hostel in Home Hill, south of Townsville, at about 11.15pm on Tuesday.

The woman died at the scene and another man is in hospital in a critical condition. A man in his 40’s was also injured.

‘The investigation is still in its early stages, however, initial inquiries indicate that comments which may be construed as of an extremist nature were made by the alleged offender,’ Gollschewski said.

‘It is alleged the suspect used the phrase, ‘Allahu akbar’ during the attack and when arrested by police.

‘While this information will be factored in we are not ruling out any motivations at this stage, whether they be political or criminal.’